The stage is set for an extraordinary community production that promises to bring the rich heritage of Volga Germans to life. 'Josie's Gift', an original play penned by local playwright Cheryl Glassman, is set to grace the Hays High School Auditorium on August 6th. This captivating performance is not just a play; it's a journey through history, music, and family traditions, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of Volga Germans in Kansas. Glassman's collaboration with the Ellis County Historical Society has resulted in a masterpiece that intertwines historical research with personal stories, creating a vivid tapestry of the past and present. The play unfolds with a poignant recounting of the arduous journey of Volga German immigrants from Russia to Ellis County, beginning in 1876. It then transports the audience to 1982, where the story of Josie, a woman in her 70s recovering from a stroke, takes center stage. As her family grapples with the decision to move her into a nursing home, the trunk of cherished keepsakes becomes a portal to generations of Volga German life in Kansas. Among the featured scenes are traditional weddings, both from the late 1800s and the 1970s, showcasing customs that have remarkably endured across time. The attention to detail in costuming is remarkable, with authentic black wedding attire and babushkas transporting the audience back in time. Glassman's commitment to authenticity extends beyond costumes, as she incorporates everyday life, from Christmas celebrations to childhood games, offering a glimpse into the past that resonates with the present. Cast member Jerry Braun contributed a unique family game, a set of cow bones his father used as toys, adding a personal touch to the historical recreation. Music is an integral part of the production, with Glassman adapting melodies from historic Volga German song collections and composing original pieces. A live orchestra, featuring Hays High School students on strings, along with guitar, accordion, and piano accompaniment, will perform during the show, creating a symphony of sounds that will resonate with the audience. For Braun, this production has become a personal journey of discovery. It has sparked a newfound curiosity about his heritage, urging him to delve deeper into the history that shapes his identity. While the play celebrates the traditions and joys of Volga German life, it also acknowledges the hardships endured by this resilient community. From persecution in Russia to deaths during the voyage to America and the challenges of building new lives on the Kansas prairie, the play provides a balanced perspective that is both educational and emotionally resonant. The production has brought together a diverse range of community organizations, including the Ellis County Historical Society, local theater volunteers, Hays USD 489, musicians, and members of the Volga German community. Glassman emphasizes the collaborative nature of the project, highlighting the importance of community support in bringing such a complex and meaningful production to life. The performance on August 6th is more than just a theatrical event; it's an invitation to embrace and celebrate the heritage of the Volga Germans. The traditional bierock meal, served in the school cafeteria, adds a culinary dimension to the experience, inviting attendees to indulge in a taste of Kansas cuisine. With seating available on a first-come, first-served basis, organizers encourage early arrival to secure a spot and fully immerse themselves in this extraordinary cultural journey. 'Josie's Gift' is a testament to the power of storytelling, preserving history, and celebrating the diverse tapestry of Kansas' cultural heritage.
